Things You'll Only See In Russia

Russia Being Red

Russia is commonly referred to as "red." The Red Square was built in Moscow in the 16th century. The original intent was for the square to be a market, but over the years its intention changed. Many coronations and public ceremonies have taken place in the square. The Red Square was not named for communism (obviously) but for the word "Krasnyi" which sounds like the word red but also means "beautiful." 

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The More You Know

  • Portland was named by a coin flip. Had the coin landed the other way, the city would be known as Boston, Oregon.
  • When Boris Yeltsin met President Clinton in 1995, his first question was "Do you think O.J. did it?"
  • But the loudest animal relative to its size is a water bug.
  • The idea that a man should spend two months salary on an engagement ring was popularized by De Beers' ad agency.
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